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Eppaw facts for kids

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Eppaw
Perideridiaoregana.jpg
Conservation status

Apparently Secure (NatureServe)
Scientific classification
Genus:
Perideridia
Species:
oregana
Eppaw, raw
Nutritional value per 100 g (3.5 oz)
Energy 628 kJ (150 kcal)
31.68 g
1.8 g
Protein
4.6 g
Vitamins Quantity
%DV
Thiamine (B1)
10%
0.11 mg
Riboflavin (B2)
10%
0.12 mg
Niacin (B3)
2%
0.3 mg
Pantothenic acid (B5)
23%
1.172 mg
Vitamin B6
14%
0.176 mg
Folate (B9)
6%
24 μg
Vitamin C
16%
13 mg
Minerals Quantity
%DV
Calcium
11%
110 mg
Iron
9%
1.15 mg
Magnesium
9%
32 mg
Manganese
52%
1.094 mg
Phosphorus
24%
165 mg
Potassium
11%
340 mg
Zinc
12%
1.15 mg

Link to USDA Database entry
Percentages estimated using US recommendations for adults.

Perideridia oregana is a fascinating flowering plant. It is often called Oregon yampah or eppaw. This plant belongs to the Apiaceae family, which also includes carrots and parsley. It grows naturally in the western United States, especially in Oregon and California. You can find it in woodlands and other natural areas.

What is Oregon Yampah?

Oregon yampah is a perennial herb. This means it lives for more than two years. It can grow to be about 10 to 90 centimeters (4 to 35 inches) tall. Its stem stands straight up and can be green or a waxy grayish color.

Roots and Leaves

The plant grows from a group of small, round structures called tubers. These tubers are like tiny underground storage units. The leaves near the bottom of the plant can be quite long, from 3 to 30 centimeters (1 to 12 inches). Each leaf is divided into many smaller parts, which can be divided even further. This gives the leaves a complex, feathery look.

Flowers and Fruits

When it blooms, Oregon yampah produces many small, white flowers. These flowers grow in round clusters that look like tiny umbrellas. This type of flower cluster is called a compound umbel. After the flowers, the plant makes small, ribbed fruits. These fruits are shaped like oblongs and are usually 3 to 6 millimeters long.

Where Does Oregon Yampah Grow?

This plant is native to the western parts of North America. Its main homes are the states of Oregon and California. It likes to grow in different types of habitats. You can often find it in open woodlands, meadows, and grassy areas. It prefers places where the soil is well-drained.

A Plant with Many Uses

For a long time, the tubers of the Oregon yampah plant have been an important food source. Native American tribes in the western United States traditionally gathered and ate these tubers. They are quite nutritious!

Nutritional Value

The tubers of Oregon yampah are packed with energy. They contain carbohydrates, which give you fuel for your activities. They also have some protein and healthy fats. Plus, they are a good source of important minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium. They even provide some vitamins, including Vitamin C. This makes them a valuable food source, especially in the past.

Life Cycle of Oregon Yampah

As a perennial plant, Oregon yampah lives through many seasons. It grows from its tubers each spring. The plant produces its stems, leaves, and then its flowers. After flowering, it creates seeds inside its small fruits. These seeds can then grow into new plants. The tubers underground help the plant survive through winter and regrow the next year.

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